Beat work from home burnout: Tips to stay happy, healthy, and productive

By Tristan Amin

For those of us who work from home, finding a balance between work and personal life can be a challenge. It can be easy to fall into a cycle of overworking and neglecting our personal needs. This can lead to work from home burnout, where we feel overwhelmed, demotivated, and stressed.?

Despite changes to the working week in many corporate businesses following the COVID pandemic, with most operating the 3 days in the office 2 days from home model, worker burnout is worse than ever before. Studies show that the constant plug-in to work and the difficulty in separating work from personal life causes burnout. According to a survey by Slack’s Future Forum, 43 per cent of workers feel burnt out at work, a Gallup survey found similar results with a third of all workers always or very often burnt out.?

To avoid this, it is essential to take measures to stay happy, healthy, and productive. We share our top tips to help you beat work from home burnout and stay on the path to success.

1. Set boundaries

Establishing boundaries is essential to keep the work-life balance intact. Even if you are working from home, make sure to set a routine and stick to it. Define your working hours and avoid working outside those hours. Communicate your schedule to your colleagues and family members to avoid unnecessary distractions during work hours.

2. Take breaks

Taking small breaks throughout the day can help you improve productivity and reduce stress. Schedule regular breaks into your day, and use this time to step away from work and engage in activities that you enjoy, like reading, taking a walk, or listening to music. These breaks help your mind to recharge and stay focused and refreshed.

3. Exercise

Exercise is one of the best ways to reduce stress and boost mood. Incorporate movement into your daily routine to keep your body healthy and your mind active. Whether it's a gym session, morning run, or an evening yoga practice, find an activity that works for you and stick with it.

4. Connect with others

Social isolation can affect mental health, especially when working from home. Make an effort to connect with friends and colleagues regularly. Utilize technology to stay in touch, like video conferencing, messaging, or phone calls. These connections can help you stay motivated, reduce stress, and maintain a positive outlook.

5. Seek help

When you feel overwhelmed, it's ok to seek help. Speak to your colleagues or supervisor about your concerns and discuss solutions. Seek help from a mental health professional if you need it. There is no shame in asking for help, and it's important to prioritize your mental health to avoid burnout.

Work from home burnout is a real concern for those of us who are working remotely. The key to avoiding burnout is to establish healthy habits that promote a work-life balance. Set boundaries, take breaks, exercise, connect with others, and seek help when you need it. By implementing these habits into your daily routine, you can stay happy, healthy, and productive while working from home. Remember to prioritize self-care and make your well-being a priority.